Anderson meets Palestinian ambassador to EU

Sinn Féin MEP Martina Anderson met the Palestinian ambassador to the EU, Leila Shahid, in Brussels today ahead of a visit to Palestine next week.

Speaking after the meeting, Ms Anderson said;

"I along with my fellow Sinn Féin MEPs met with the Palestinian ambassador to the European Union, Leila Shahid in Brussels today.

"The meeting was part of our ongoing engagement in Europe to end the suffering of the people of Gaza.

"Ambassador Shahid briefed us on the latest situation in Gaza, including the unfolding humanitarian crisis.

"As chair of the Palestinian Delegation at the European Parliament, I will be leading a group of MEPs on a visit to Palestine next week to witness at first hand the devastation caused by the recent Israeli onslaught.

"I welcomed the latest ceasefire announcement in Gaza and I hope it will result in a lasting peace which will bring an end to the slaughter of the Palestinian people.

"I also welcome the conclusions of a special meeting of the European Council held on Monday which called on all sides to respect the ceasefire and to continue negotiations.

"It also called for the lifting of the Israeli blockade and for unimpeded humanitarian access to Gaza."